High School Program
Desert Marigold High School prepares students for college and life through rigorous academics, artistic expression, and real-world experiences. We develop young adults who think independently, act ethically, and engage meaningfully with the world.
Rigorous Academics
College preparatory curriculum with small class sizes and individualized attention. Students develop critical thinking through Socratic discussion and project-based learning.
Arts Integration
The arts remain central in high school, with courses in visual arts, music, drama, and eurythmy. All students participate in school plays and artistic projects.
Real-World Experience
Internships, community service, and field studies connect classroom learning to the wider world. Students engage with professionals and develop real-world skills.
Independent Thinking
Through research, debate, and independent projects, students develop the capacity for original thought and ethical reasoning that will serve them throughout life.
Our Academic Approach
Main Lesson Continues
High school students continue the main lesson block format, diving deeply into subjects through intensive 3-4 week blocks. This approach allows for thorough understanding and genuine engagement with complex material.
Small Class Sizes
With small class sizes, teachers know each student individually and can provide differentiated instruction and mentorship. Students receive the attention they need to thrive.
Discussion-Based Learning
Classes emphasize Socratic dialogue and discussion. Students learn to articulate ideas, consider multiple perspectives, and engage in civil discourse—skills essential for college and citizenship.
Original Work
Rather than relying on textbooks, students create their own main lesson books and engage directly with primary sources. This develops intellectual independence and deep understanding.
Curriculum Overview
Humanities
- English Literature & Composition
- World History
- U.S. History
- Economics
- Philosophy
- Art History
Sciences
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Environmental Science
- Anatomy & Physiology
Mathematics
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Trigonometry
- Pre-Calculus
- Statistics
World Languages
- Spanish (all levels)
- Language immersion experiences
Arts
- Visual Arts
- Music
- Drama
- Eurythmy
- Woodworking
- Crafts
The Senior Year Experience
Senior year is a capstone experience, bringing together years of learning and development. Students take on significant independent projects and prepare for the transition to adulthood.
Senior Project
A year-long independent research and creative project on a topic of the student's choosing, culminating in a presentation to the school community.
Internship
Students complete an internship in a field of interest, gaining real-world experience and professional mentorship.
Community Service
Ongoing service learning connects students to their community and develops compassion and civic responsibility.
Senior Play
The senior class produces a full-length dramatic production, developing teamwork, creativity, and performance skills.
College Preparation
Our graduates are well-prepared for college success. The skills they develop— independent thinking, clear writing, time management, and self-motivation—serve them well in higher education and beyond.
- College counseling beginning in junior year
- SAT/ACT preparation support
- Application essay assistance
- Transcript and recommendation preparation
- Financial aid guidance
Where Our Graduates Go
Desert Marigold graduates attend colleges and universities across the country, pursuing diverse fields from the sciences to the humanities to the arts.
Our graduates report that their Waldorf education prepared them exceptionally well for the demands of college—particularly in critical thinking, writing, and intellectual curiosity.
Discover Our High School
We invite prospective students and families to visit our high school, meet our teachers, and experience our unique approach to secondary education.